Brazil creates special force of riot police to control protests during World Cup

SAO PAULO – Brazil has created a special riot force to help police control demonstrations expected during the World Cup later this year.

Col. Alexandre Augusto Aragon heads the elite National Security Force. He tells the G1 Internet portal that 10,000 riot troops selected from state police forces throughout Brazil will be deployed in the 12 cities hosting World Cup games June 12-July 13.

Violent street demonstrations broke out last June protesting corruption, poor public services and a host of other complaints. The protests coincided with the Confederations Cup, a warm-up tournament for the World Cup.

The Black Bloc anarchist movement has announced plans for demonstrations for the World Cup, starting with the opening match on June 12 in Sao Paulo.